The Fisher & Paykel Solo Mask is designed with user comfort at the forefront. Its ergonomic shape is tailored to fit a wide range of face shapes and sizes, providing a snug yet comfortable fit. The mask features a soft silicone cushion that gently seals against the skin, reducing the likelihood of pressure sores and discomfort during prolonged use.
One of the standout features is the adjustable headgear. Made from a breathable, flexible material, the headgear ensures stability without feeling overly restrictive. Users have praised its ability to maintain a secure fit throughout the night, minimizing disruptions due to mask movement.
Ease of Use
Setting up and maintaining a CPAP mask can often be a cumbersome task. However, the Fisher & Paykel Solo Mask excels in this area with its intuitive design. The mask is easy to assemble and disassemble, making cleaning and maintenance straightforward. The quick-release clips on the headgear allow for easy removal of the mask without the need to readjust the fit each time, a convenience highly appreciated by users.
The mask also features an efficient exhalation port that quietly diffuses air, reducing noise and preventing disturbances to the user and their partner. This makes the Solo Mask an excellent choice for those who prioritize a quiet sleep environment.
Performance
Performance-wise, the Fisher & Paykel Solo Mask delivers reliable results. The secure seal provided by the silicone cushion ensures consistent air pressure delivery, essential for effective sleep apnea treatment. Users have reported a noticeable improvement in sleep quality and a reduction in apnea events after switching to this mask.
Additionally, the mask’s lightweight design reduces the burden on the face, allowing for a more natural sleep experience. The wide field of vision afforded by the minimalistic frame design is another benefit, enabling users to wear glasses or watch TV comfortably before bed.
Value for Money
When it comes to value for money, the Fisher & Paykel Solo Mask stands out as a worthwhile investment. While it may be priced slightly higher than some basic models, the superior comfort, ease of use, and performance justify the cost. The durability of the materials used ensures that the mask can withstand daily use, making it a long-term solution for CPAP therapy.
User Feedback
User feedback for the Fisher & Paykel Solo Mask has been overwhelmingly positive. Many users highlight the comfort and stability of the mask as key benefits. The minimal noise produced by the exhalation port is frequently mentioned as a significant improvement over previous masks. Additionally, users appreciate the ease of adjusting and maintaining the mask, which simplifies their daily routine.
However, some users have noted that the mask may require a period of adjustment to achieve the perfect fit. It is recommended to follow the fitting instructions carefully and make use of the adjustable features to tailor the mask to individual needs.
Final Verdict
The Fisher & Paykel Solo Mask is a standout option in the CPAP mask market, offering a blend of comfort, performance, and ease of use. Its thoughtful design caters to the needs of sleep apnea patients, ensuring a restful night’s sleep with minimal disruptions. While it may come at a higher price point, the investment is well worth it for those seeking a reliable and comfortable CPAP mask.
Whether you are new to CPAP therapy or looking to upgrade your current mask, the Fisher & Paykel Solo Mask is certainly worth considering. Its user-friendly features and consistent performance make it a top choice for enhancing the quality of sleep and improving overall well-being.
The new AirFit F40 from ResMed may ring a few bells when you first look at it. That is because it is a similar style to the previous AirFit F30 model that has been popular for years now. However, the F40 boasts some really nice improvements that may make the upgrade a very good idea for you. Let’s compare the ResMed AirFit F30 and the ResMed AirFit F40 full face CPAP masks from a few important points of reference:
Seal: The AirFit F30 features an UltraCompact silicone cushion that fits snugly under your nose and over your mouth. It provides a more open field of vision compared to its predecessors, reducing claustrophobia. The cushion design prevents red marks and irritation on the nose bridge. Available only in Small and Medium.
Comfort and Fitting: The mask has a slim and lightweight profile, with no forehead support. It does have a rigid frame, and a rigid portion of the cushion.
Headgear: The SoftEdge headgear is gentle on the skin and leaves minimal strap marks. It is available in one size and has 5 points of adjustment. It has very simple magnets for attaching and detaching.
Exhalation and Draft: The QuietAir exhalation port has circular venting ports diffuse air quietly for peaceful nights. Your bed partner will not hear feel your exhalation.
Tube connection: Your tube connects at the mask view the quick connect elbow. The elbow articulates and swivels for ease of movement.
Mask Frame: The Frame on the F30 is very small and the headgear connects directly to the frame at the front of the face.
Ease of Use: The F30 assembles and disassembles effortlessly with its simple four-part design. Easy tube disconnect, cushion clips in and out of frame, and adjustable velcro straps ensure a better fit. Quick attach elbow allows you to connect to and from the tube very easily.
As in every case the “new” version of something may or may not result in a “better” version of that product. ResMed has been making CPAP mask successfully for a very long time, and when they make an upgrade, it is usually a genuine improvement. The AirFIt F40 resembles the F30 in shape but offers several design improvements.
Seal: The AirFit F40 AdaptiSeal cushion is softer and shallower, providing a better fit on the face. Gone is the hard plastic backing found in previous ResMed AirFit full face mask cushions. The F40 aims for enhanced comfort and a more secure seal. Available in Small/Wide, Medium, and now Large.
Comfort and Fitting: Similar to the F30 the F40 seals under the nose. However, the full flexible frame on the F40 give much more maneuverability for fitting.
Headgear and Fitting: The new F40 headgear is available in 3 sizes (small, standard, and Large) for a more custom fit. It also has just 4 points of adjustment. Attached and detaches with simple magnets.
Exhalation and Draft: The QuietAir venting of the exhalation is also very quiet and diffused. Not sleep interruptions for you or your bed partner from exhalation noise or draft. The exhalation port is now attached to the cushion instead of being part of the connection elbow.
Tube Connection: The F40 features a quick connect stretch tube for added flexibility and movement.
Mask Frame: The frame of the F40 has wing-like extensions that allow the headgear to attach further back. This keeps the straps further away from your eyes. It also comes equipped with padded covering on the frame.
Ease of Use: The cushion on the F40 is very easy to pull in and out. Nothing to snap in or out. 4-point headgear adjustment instead of 5 makes headgear adjustment easier. The quick connect elbow is also very quick and easy for tube attach and detach.
F40 Versus F30 Overview:
In summary, both masks are excellent choices, but your preference may depend on factors like comfort, visibility, and seal. Consider your personal needs and preferences when choosing between the AirFit F30 and AirFit F40. In our demonstrations here, the F40 is not only a great option for current F30 users but might even be a good choice for those who didn’t like the F30 originally. The improvements have certainly changed things, and it is worth a try.
30 day CPAP Mask Guarantee:
At CPAPmyway we offer a free 30-day exchange guarantee. In this case if you tried the AirFit F40 and decided it wasn’t the upgrade you were hoping for we will exchange it for free for you to the mask you like. A no risk way to tray a great new mask.
ResMed is the leader in the sleep therapy world, and CPAP masks are no exception to that. They have now launched the AirFit F40 Full Face. This is a minimal contact full face mask which are very popular today. In this blog we will introduce you to all the details of the F40. From setup and fitting to maintenance and our comparison and review of the F40. Now, let’s jump right in on those details.
AirFit F40 Fitting Guide
Getting a good start on any mask is the most important factor. A bad start or bad fitting at the beginning will lead to bad outcomes on the mask. With the F40 getting it fitted right will allow you to find out if it is a good fit for you. The single biggest thing to remember on this mask is that it seals UNDER the nose and over the mouth. We have had many customers trying to get the seal over the bridge of their nose, and that is not what this mask is designed to do. Now let’s look at the proper way to get a great fit on the F40 step by step.
AirFit F40 Fitting process:
Twist and pull both magnetic clips away from the frame magnets.
Place the F40 cushion under your nose and ensure it sits comfortably against your face. With the ResMed logo on the headgear facing out, pull the F40 headgear over your head. The top headgear strap should sit on top of your head and not too far forward or back.
Bring the lower headgear straps under your ears and attach the magnetic clips to the frame.
If the mask needs adjusting, undo the fastening tabs on the upper headgear straps and pull evenly. Repeat with the lower headgear straps.
AirFit F40 Cleaning Instructions:
Keeping up with your mask will improve the longevity and dramatically improve the performance. The AirFit F40 mask cushion should be maintained daily, and the entire F40 assembly needs to be maintained weekly. If you stay on track with this process, you will see much better comfort and performance over a much longer period of time.
Soak the components in warm water with a mild liquid detergent like CPAP Soap. Ensure that there are no air bubbles while soaking.
Shake the components vigorously in the water and hand wash with a soft bristle brush. Pay particular attention to the vent holes in the QuietAir/Multi-hole vent ring.
Thoroughly rinse the components under running water.
Squeeze the fabric components to remove excess water.
Leave the components to air dry out of direct sunlight. If the mask components are not visibly clean, repeat the cleaning steps.
Make sure that the vents and anti-asphyxia valves are clean and clear. This flap can get a little sticky if not kept clean.
AirFit F40 Sizing Options:
The AirFit F40 is in many ways the newest version of the F30. One huge issue with the F30 was that there was no large size. The new F40 not only has added a large cushion option, but also has a small and large headgear option. Those improvements give the F40 a 98% fit range according to ResMed’s fitting study.
F40 Headgear Sizes: Small, Standard, and Large. Most of the time you will have a standard F40 headgear included with your mask, but if it is too loose or too tight, then you can go with the small or large option for a better fit.
F40 Review and Comparison:
To me the F40 is the upgraded version of the F30 by ResMed. I say this because the F40 is very similar to the F30 and the obvious transition from 3 to 4 in the name pretty much defines that. That mean that many of the positives on the F40 are what you might call upgrades from the F30. The F30 has been super popular and so an upgraded or 2.0 version (ie: F40) is certainly worth a hard look for CPAP users.
AirFit F40 Pros:
Much better fit and seal– The AdaptiSeal cushion is super-flexible and does a really nice job of contouring to your unique face.
Simpler headgear– The new headgear on the F40 only has 4 points of adjustment as opposed to the 5 points on the F30. Much easier to fit and adjust. It is also very soft and comfortable.
Fully Flexible frame– What good is the flexible cushion if it were installed in a rigid frame. That is why the F40 introduced a very flexible frame that will also allow for a much more comfortable fit. It also makes it very durable and hard to break.
Very nice exhalation diffuser– The QuietAir exhalation ring makes the F40 very quiet and makes the draft almost nothing.
AirFit F40 Cons:
Front of nose leak– The F30 had some minor reporting of leaks at the front of the nose on the cushion. The F40 has a similar fit and in demos of the F40 performance did show that on my wife specifically. It fit me great with no leaks, but she could not get it to seal for her.
Bridge on nasal opening can be weird– Some users have reported that the bridge in the middle of the nasal opening can block a nostril at times. Not an issue we hear terribly often, but it has been reported.
If you are considering a Travel CPAP to simplify your life, then you should definitely take a look at the new Luna TravelPAP. It is the latest addition to the Travel CPAP options out there today. It is made by React Health, also known as 3B. They have been making reliable Home CPAPs for a while now and will now be offering this option for Travel CPAP. In this blog we will go over all of the details on this new Travel CPAP as well as our review to how it compares to other options.
Luna TravelPAP Details:
The TravelPAP has a very unique look. I have compared it to more of a bluetooth speaker or noise maker look. It certainly does not look like a CPAP with the unique pill-like setup. On one end of the unit is your air outlet for attachment of any standard CPAP tube and on the other end the air intake where you have a disposable filter. From end to end the TravelPAP measures 6.26″. It is 2.6″ deep and 2.8″ tall. So, it takes up very little room on a nightstand or in a bag. It only weighs 14 ounces or 0.88lbs. Definitely helpful in a limited weight or space travel situation. Below I will detail the other unique specifications on the Luna TravelPAP.
Luna TravelPAP Specifications:
Size: 6.26″ x 2.6″ x 2.8″ and weighing 0.88lbs.
Noise level: About 30 dB (A) depending on pressure settings.
Setting Options: Fixed Pressure CPAP or Auto CPAP ranging from 4-20cm
Tube and Mask Connection: Universal CPAP tube connection (22mm) and universal CPAP mask connection.
Setup of your Luna TravelPAP:
There is likely not an easier setup than on this Luna TravelPAP CPAP. More than likely it will not take you more than a minute or two. I would even bet that it takes you more time to unpack the box than to hook it up and start using it.
There is VERY little maintenance on the Luna TravelPAP. Weekly you will check the filter inside of the Filter housing for discoloration. Change it at the first sign of discoloration or wear. Wipe down the unit weekly as well with a damp cloth making sure that the filter housing is clear. Outside of that you will just keep the CPAP mask and tubing cleaned weekly with normal cleaning procedures.
Connecting your Luna TravelPAP to the LightTrip App:
Once you download the LightTrip app linking it to the TravelPAP is a breeze. Follow the steps below and/or take a look at the video above to get it linked up via blueooth very easily.
With your Luna TravelPAP plugged in to power press the bluetooth icon on the top of the unit. Once you press the icon it should start blinking.
Now open your LightTrip app and press the bluetooth icon in the top left of the app.
Now select your serial number from the list of available connections.
Your bluetooth light on top of the TravelPAP should go solid white and the app should switch to your main screen showing your settings and controls.
CPAPmyway Review of Luna TravelPAP:
We always get pretty excited about new CPAPs, and Travel CPAPs are especially cool. The Luna TravelPAP is no exception to that. Out of the box it has a very cool look. Nothing like a CPAP machine at all. There are not true buttons or screens to make it look medical. If you didn’t know what it was, then you might think it is a speaker or something. Below I have some details on what I found to be cool features as well as where I thought we have some room to improve.
Luna TravelPAP Pros:
App worked great: With some bluetooth connected things it can be a little wonky. This unit connected to the LightTrip app really quick and easy. The app was very user friendly, and even the clinical menu navigation was easy from the app.
Normal noise level: Nothing out of the ordinary on noise level. As with all Travel CPAPs, there is more noise than with a home CPAP, but not bad at all.
Really simple: Not a whole lot easier than this unit. Hook it up and go to sleep. One little filter to check weekly.
Auto On worked great: Sometimes you feel like you need to work hard breathing to get the Auto On feature to kick in on your CPAP. This one was super-sensitive and was running within a breath or two for me.
Universal Connection: No adapters needed to connect standard tubing or any CPAP mask.
Luna TravelPAP Cons:
No Accessories: The only power option would be the DC power cord, but there is no battery option or HME designed to work with the TravelPAP. You can use generic HMEs or a Generic Battery like the Portable Outlet, but nothing has been specifically designed for the TravelPAP.
Tube and power connection: I really don’t like when the tube and power cord plug in the same side. Makes for weird nightstand setups and operation. This unit is not alone in this setup though. Seems to be common amongst other Travel CPAP options.
No humidifier system: As with all the other Travel CPAPs, the TravelPAP does not have a heated humidifier option. HME is the only humidity choice.
No Bipap option: If you are on Bipap, then this unit will not work for you. That is also a common issue amongst all other Travel CPAP options.
In this blog we are going to run through all of the Travel CPAPs available today. As with anything there is not a “one size fits all” best option. You need to consider things like size, price, weight, and available accessories. All the Travel CPAP options today have variations in those categories, and you should consider them all. So, let’s take a deeper dive on each option and see what might work best for you.
What do all Travel CPAPs have in common?
There are a few things that you need to keep in mind about all Travel CPAPs. They do not have many shortcomings, but the few that they do are things that you should know up front. Let’s look into a few common things about all Travel CPAPs.
Travel CPAP Similarities:
No Heated Humidifiers– All of the Travel CPAPs listed here are designed to work with HMEs. They recycle the humidity from your exhalation to keep you from drying out as opposed to adding humidity with a heated humidifier. This saves on room and the need to carry water. Learn about HMEs here.
No Bipap option– All Travel CPAPs are just that, CPAPs. The closest thing that some doctors we work with have recommended get to a Bipap setting would be to match your IPAP setting to the CPAP setting in the Travel CPAP and maximize the exhalation relief of the travel CPAP. Outside of that, there is no Travel Bipap option.
Slightly louder than home CPAPs– Home CPAPs have a lot more insulation than their smaller Travel counterparts. That means that you will hear a little more blower motor noise. Very few people have an issue with it, but if it is concerning you should check out our blog on the quietest Travel CPAPs compared here.
ReactHealth Luna TravelPAP:
Let’s start with the latest addition to the Travel CPAP world. The Luna TravelPAP was introduced early 2024 and promises to have the same quality and durability as their Luna home CPAP machines. It measures just 6.26″ x 2.6″ x 2.83″ and weighs just 0.88 lbs 1(4 ounces). You can set it to Auto CPAP or fixed pressure CPAP and has the industry standard 2-year warranty. Apples to apples it is at least very comparable to most models already out today. With that being said, let’s take a look at the TravelPAP’s highlights and shortcoming.
TravelPAP Pros:
Very Simple– No difficult connections, complicated setup, or difficult maintenance. It is simpler than most home CPAP machine.
Universal Connection– Use any standard tubing and in-turn use any standard CPAP mask. No limitations.
Unique design– The pill shaped look is a complete departure from a piece of medical equipment. To me it looks more like a bluetooth speaker or nightstand sound machine than a CPAP.
TravelPAP Cons:
No Battery Integration– Outside of a generic battery like the Portable Outlet CPAP battery, there is not battery integration for off-grid use.
Power supply connection point– I do not like when the power cord plugs in to the same side as the CPAP tube outlet. It presents weird setups on the nightstand.
ResMed AirMini Travel CPAP:
If you have looked into Travel CPAP Machines at all, then you will likely have seen the AirMini. It is by far the most popular due to the success of the ResMed brand on almost all fronts. The AirMini measures 5.4″ x 3.3″ x 2″ and weighs in at just 0.66 lbs (10.6 ounces). It also can be run in Auto CPAP or fixed pressure modes, but also has the “AutoSet for her” setting for ladies. AirMini comes with the standard 2-year warranty. It has been out for years now and has had tons of visible feedback from customers everywhere. Let’s look at what I like and dislike most about this particular model.
AirMini Pros:
Very Durable– We have had customer use the AirMini as their primary CPAP for years without issue. It is truly built to last and has proven that to us.
Quiet– In our side by side comparisons, the AirMini puts out the lowest amount of noise of all the Travel CPAPs we looked at.
Comfortable and effective– It uses the same algorithm as the ResMed home CPAP models. It has proven to be one of the most effective and comfortable algorithms for treating people’s sleep apnea.
Great Accessory Selection– From AirMini battery options and mounting systems to HME integration and off brand adapters, this unit is very versatile.
AirMini Cons:
Tricky Filter Housing– It can be really tricky to get the filter housing off. I have even had older customers with dexterity issues incapable of getting the filter out.
Power Supply Connection– As with the previous model, I do not care for the power supply and tubing on the same side of the machine.
2 Year Warranty– They all have a standard 2 year warranty on the Travel CPAP machine itself.
Transcend Micro Travel CPAP:
As the smallest Travel CPAP machine available the Transcend Micro always catches people’s eye when they start shopping. The Manufacturer Somnetics was the original Travel CPAP maker, and this is their latest model. They have a long track record in this arena, and it is actually the only CPAP they make. The Micro has a round shape that measures 2.4″ tall with a diameter of 3.6″. It weighs just .48 lbs (7.7 ounces). So, it is really small and light for sure. It also has the standard 2-year warranty. So, what are the upsides and downsides of the Transcend Micro.
Transcend Micro Pros:
Super Small– As mentioned, the Micro is the smallest Travel CPAP available today. If that is your largest concern, then this is a top consideration for you.
Use any mask– While the tubing is not a standard tube, the mask connection point is universal. Connect and use any CPAP mask.
Simple Maintenance– There is nothing difficult about maintaining this unit. Very easy.
Power Connection– The power supply connects in a normal way and does not interfere with the tubing at all.
Transcend Micro Cons:
Unique tubing connection– You cannot attach a standard tube to the micro. You must use the Micro CPAP Tube. The tube will connect to any mask, but it must be that tube.
Setting changes– We can only change settings from the clinical software on the Micro. So, if you need any changes it has to be done at our office.
Breas Z2 Travel CPAP:
The Z2 Travel CPAP machine has also been around for quite some time. It is made by a company called HDM Breas. It is also very small at 6.3″ X 3.5″ X 2″ and weighs only 0.5 lbs (7.9 ounces). This makes it one of the very lightest Travel CPAPs available. The Z2 also comes with the standard 2 year warranty.
Z2 Pros:
Very lightweight– There will be no issue in the case where you are strapped for space or close to max weight in that carry on.
Display Screen– None of the other options have a scree for display. Some users like to be able to see what is going on and make adjustments from the CPAP itself. The Z2 is the only one that allows that.
Universal Tube Connection– The adapter that is included with the Z2 connects to any standard CPAP tube and in turn any CPAP mask.
Great Accessory options– The Z2 has a great battery integration as well as other great accessories.
Z2 Cons:
A little louder– The Z2 ranked a little louder than the others in our comparison. Not by much and the Q-Lite tube muffler that is included does help.
Must use adapter– The unit will not function without the tube adapter, and it is easy to misplace.
Not an everyday use choice– The customers that have put heavy use on the Z2 have had some issues with longevity. It is by no means unreliable, but I would not recommend it as a primary CPAP.